I'm thinking of adding some z-Stuff Bridge Signals to my new and hopefully improved layout (which hasn't been started yet). My concern is that between my two loops of track I have 5 1/2 inches measured center rail to center rail. According to the Z-Stuff specs, that should be 4 1/2 inches. Would that pose a problem with the signals functioning correctly? I'm asking this before I sink $182 for a Bridge.
WBTrainman
The train detector sensor should not have a problem, So you should be fine.
The Z-Stuff signal bridges are designed for 4.5" spacing of tracks. The design span is 1" greater than a full-scale standard bridge as scale track spacing would be about 3¼+".
The signal lights are located for the model's designed spacing. So each signal will be out of place by ½" (or 2 feet full scale) on your layout. It probably won't be very noticeable.
A potential issue is the clearance between the bridge supports and the trains since the tracks will be that ½" closer. You shouldn't place the bridges on a curve or any of the lead-in straights if you have any long locomotives or rolling stock. You should check clearances before you permanently install the bridges.
If you are not afraid of cutting a $60 O72 switch you can get 4.5" spacing. RR-Track has the short O72 switch (the curve is cut to 19.5° instead of it normal 22.5°
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Jan
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